Highland Park officials OK Rosewood beach structures

City Council OKs structures for recreational use

January 25, 2013|By John P. Huston, Chicago Tribune reporter

The Highland Park City Council recently approved an ordinance to allow several new structures to be built at Rosewood Park Beach.

The $4.7 million redevelopment project includes four permanent structures — a lifeguard house, concession stand, restroom and "interpretive shelter," or multi-use building — as well as a boardwalk and lookout at Highland Park's only swimming beach.

Council members approved the ordinance for the beach project without discussion at its Jan. 14 meeting. The drama of the issue had already been largely laid to rest at the council's Dec. 10 meeting, when the panel unanimously directed counsel to prepare the documents necessary for final approval.

The interpretive shelter was the main sticking point for many opponents. Several argued that placing it near the shore could subject it to damage from inclement weather and climate change. The Park District of Highland Park website said the building will be 1,960 square feet, though a city memo listed it at 2,640 square feet.

Redevelopment at the Rosewood Park Beach has been the target of opposition for years, including a 2010 Park District proposal that would have combined elements in the current plan into a single structure. That design was withdrawn after city authorities were unreceptive.

The planning process began in earnest in 2006, after the demolition of an aging, two-story bath and restroom facility, according to a city memo.

The project will also include a seasonal handicapped-accessible beach roll-out mat, picnic areas, signage, lighting, benches and trash receptacles, and replacement of playground equipment at Rosewood Park Beach, at 45 Roger Williams Ave. and 883 Sheridan Road, the city memo says.

Park District of Highland Park commissioners approved the beach redesign project in August. It is estimated to cost $4.7 million, $850,000 of which would be covered by grants, according to the Park District. The bulk of the cost would be covered by reserve funds.

Construction could begin as early as late summer, according to the Park District.